Welcome

Our mission is to provide a comprehensive instructional program in visual art that will develop professional artists, art historians/critics, art educators, and an informed public. Visual images are a powerful means of communication and we strive to set a high standard of literacy in this dominant cultural language. Central to this mission are opportunities to create original works, critically analyze artworks and images past and present, and research the history of art/culture and the contexts in which art is produced. Through these processes our students develop critical and creative thinking skills, cultivate an informed aesthetic, and obtain the ability to make judgment about artworks and images.

Enjoy the video from the 2013 Odyssey of the Stars featured art students here.

The School of Art provides comprehensive education in studio art, including intensive hands-on studio practice, inter-disciplinary studies, art history, criticism, and theory. Programs provide thorough professional training for students interested in careers in the field of art. For current information about visiting artists, exhibitions in the gallery or events please visit the NEWS: ARTBLOG, or the CVPA webpage, or call us at (406) 243-4181. Degree offerings include the BA, BFA, and MFA. in Art. Areas of specialization are Art Education, Art History, Ceramics, Drawing, Painting, Photography, Printmaking, Sculpture as well as a strong support of interdisciplinary studies. An MA degree in Studio Art and/or Art History is also offered, as well as courses that prepare students for certification in teaching art.

The School of Art has an average enrollment of 350 undergraduate majors, 10-25 graduate students. The teaching staff consists of 12 full-time permanent faculty, five graduate teaching assistants, and adjunct faculty. There are five galleries on campus and the school maintains an active visiting artist program. The School of Art has an institutional affiliation with both the CAA (College Art Association) and FATE (Foundations in Art: Theory and Education). The University of Montana is an accredited institutional member of NASAD (National Association of Schools of Art and Design).